# Student Background and Personal Statement for Recommendation My name is Toni Vossen, and I am a nontraditional college student whose educational journey has been shaped by resilience, perseverance, and a strong commitment to helping others. I am sharing my story because I hope it will give you a deeper understanding of who I am beyond my academic record and explain why continuing my education means so much to me. My ultimate goal is to use my education, lived experience, and advocacy skills to help improve the systems that serve survivors, people experiencing homelessness and addiction, and other individuals who are often misunderstood or marginalized. My life began with experiences that no child should have to endure. I experienced significant abuse during childhood, and at a young age I found myself trying to protect younger family members from experiencing the same harm. When I was eighteen, I made the decision to report my father for sexual abuse and assault. Following my decision to tell the truth, my father died by suicide, and much of my family turned against me. Although that experience profoundly affected my life, I have never regretted protecting the children who depended on me. If I were faced with the same decision today, I would make the same choice. Throughout my adult life, I experienced additional abusive relationships and circumstances that challenged my ability to feel safe and independent. Understanding those experiences has become particularly important to my academic goals. My experience in Clark College's domestic violence coursework helped me understand the dynamics of abuse, trauma bonding, victimization, and the barriers survivors face. Social psychology and criminology have been key to my safely leaving a very dangerous situation that I felt trapped in for  9 years. My education has given me language and academic frameworks for understanding experiences I had previously only understood through survival. It has also strengthened my determination to help other survivors recognize that what happened to them was not their fault and that they deserve safety, dignity, and meaningful support. My interests extend beyond victim advocacy. I am deeply interested in the relationship between childhood trauma, adverse childhood experiences, addiction, homelessness, crime, and the systems intended to address these problems. I believe society often treats the visible consequences of trauma without adequately addressing the underlying causes. My goal is to study these relationships carefully and use evidence-based research to help develop more effective interventions. I am particularly interested in trauma-informed systems, victim advocacy, public policy, criminal justice reform, homelessness, and the ways institutions can either reduce or contribute to further victimization. I hope to eventually pursue graduate education and potentially law school so that I can participate directly in policy and legal reform. I want to advocate for policies that protect survivors, improve accountability, strengthen nonprofit oversight, address inequities within the criminal justice system, and ensure that people affected by crime are treated with dignity and protected when it is needed the most.

I plan on becoming fluent in victimology and following the path to help people like myself overcome the challenges that victimization forces a person to go through, such as the mental and emotional challenges of navigating the court system. This is while prosecuting the assailant. Thereafter, safety is crucial to a quick recovery. I believe this is the most important part of recovering from such a life-changing event. No one would understand the challenges that a person faces when they are not safe after turning in someone. From the fear of retaliation to the fear of family members retaliating, when the person is well connected to the criminal side of the law, it is very dangerous. I was alone when dealing with this situation: no crime victim protection, no support. I never even received the crime victims compensation I was awarded. It is not only mentally challenging when the system itself victimizes you and leaves you to deal with the secondary victimization alone; It also creates huge hurdles for a person to jump. It also steals a person's ability to enjoy life. Not everybody realizes that this is possible. However, I do, because of my experience after being violently sexually assaulted; it stole my ability from me, and I want to guarantee that no one else going through tremendously troubling times has to understand what that means. It is devastating, and it becomes internalized. Thereafter, it leaves a person feeling empty. Like a vessel at sea with no destination: if it is rocky, fear is at its highest; if it is calm, your stress levels never cease to be activated, and you are hypervigilant, waiting for the danger to show itself. You cannot live a normal, productive life during the initial shock wave of actualizations and danger you go through. The system as it is now has failed me, and I am sure I am not the only one. I will address that using my knowledge and experience. Once I graduate, I want to become a women's advocate and stand with them through the process, not just do their intake paperwork and go home. I want to ensure that survivors can survive by helping them remain functional. If that means I am put into their lives on an everyday basis, and I have to start a recovery safe house where women who are abused or raped can run to for comfort and safety, I will. There is no excuse for why a person would have to remain homeless and scared of repercussions for doing what is right by society and turning in a perpetrator so that they are not left unknown within a community. By prosecuting an assailant, the person protects the community from becoming a potential target. There should be no reason our state and judicial system would not want the person to be safe. It is fundamental to the person's mental and physical health and well-being. I want to be there to make sure that no survivor is forgotten and left out there alone!

Recovery means a chance to repair your broken parts. It is a chance to let go of the past and move forward with a clear mind and good intentions. It means rewiring your brain to seek new hobbies, new friends, new places, and never look back. Recovery means learning resilience and new coping mechanisms to help you overcome a challenging past. It means getting to know your true self and letting that part of you become alive. To stop drowning yourself in self-pity by numbing the parts of you that are hurting and needing an addiction to survive. It is about learning to let go and accept change, allowing yourself to think, feel, and become alive and sober. Recovery means losing the unhealthy parts of your life and moving on to the future with a clear conscience and mind. It means a second chance to follow your dreams and fight for the life you always were meant ot have. It means achieving the impossible and growth for a better life. Most of all, recovery means you did not let your addiction win; you were able to face your problem, admit that you needed help, and work to overcome the hold it has on you. Recovery means you wanted ot live more than you wanted to die! It is about learning to live again and be a productive member of society through hard work and drive! It means using your past as a stepping stone to learn how to survive again!

For a survivor, which I am, the violation does not end when the assault is over. Sometimes the hardest part begins in the aftermath, when the legal system treats it as if it were not as serious as it is, trying to downplay the assault and act like it was only a misunderstanding, taking the side of the male in the matter because the person who violated you used deception or a drug instead of force. Trying to convince the police that it was a serious event that you were victimized and not asking for the trouble can seem impossible and is a form of secondary victimization that is happening and should be a violation of the law in itself. I believe this is one of the areas where the criminal justice system needs much-needed reform. I am going to be advocating for the recognition of rape by fraud and rape by deception by bringing survivor-centered education, trauma-informed care, research, and personal stories to my community and eventually to the legal field. Survivors deserve to understand that consent is not simply the absence of saying "no" ! Consent must be informed, voluntary, and based on the truth about what the person is agreeing to. It must not be tricked or coerced by fraudulent means. When someone intentionally uses a significant lie or fraud to obtain sexual access that the victim would not have agreed to if the truth were told, that person's autonomy has been taken away, and they were not given a fair choice in the matter. I f I were presenting this issue to a state legislative comitte, my strongest argument would be simple: A persons body cannot be seperated from their right to make an informed decision about what happens to it and it is a constitutional right to be given a meaningful time with meaningful notice to respond to such if it was dealing with a notice from a state agency or court hearing, and so it should be when dealing with an agreement in consent for any bodily intrusions. That means needing the whole truth and nothing but the truth upfront; otherwise, it would be considered a violation of the Constitution and an intrusion upon the seclusion of that person's body, and a sexually motivated assault that has consequences in the court of law. If someone intentionally deceives another person about any one fundamental fact in order to obtain sexual access, the deception can completely change the person's decision. Calling it anything other than what it is, such as a misunderstanding when it is a sexually motivated premeditated assault, minimizes the harm done ot the victim and places the responsibility on the victim instead of the person who intentionally created the deception. I would also explain that recognizing these crimes does not mean criminalizing every lie told in a relationship or agreement or turning every bad sexual experience into a criminal case, only when it is blatantly obvious from the facts of deception and/or fraud to gain sexual access. Legislation can establish clear standards requiring intentional deception and/or fraud involving a material fact that directly affects the person's decision to consent. The law should focus on the offender's intentional conduct that misled the victim into an uninformed decision. ' This issue matters to me because I want to work in victim advocacy as a victimologist, who will work with survivors who have experienced the additional trauma of not being believed by law enforcement, because I know how victim blaming hurts a survivor, and it is not acceptable behavior for any professional to downplay such events.

The Night My Body Began to Fail There are moments in life that split you into two people: the one you were before, and the one you become after. For me, that moment began with a kidney infection that silently turned into sepsis while I was trying to survive something else entirely. I didn't know my body was shutting down. I only knew I was exhausted in a way sleep could never fix. Every step felt like I was dragging chains behind me. My back burned with pain, my fever came in waves, and my thoughts felt slow, as if my mind were disappearing behind a thick fog. Later, I would learn that sepsis had begun spreading through my bloodstream. At the time, I thought I simply had to keep going. When you're living with domestic violence, your own pain becomes secondary. You stop asking whether you're sick enough to deserve help because you've already been taught your needs don't matter. Every day is about surviving the next hour. I wasn't just sick. I was afraid. Afraid of the person who was supposed to love me. Afraid of saying the wrong thing. Afraid of being yelled at, humiliated, or thrown out again. Home wasn't a place of safety. It was where I learned to measure every word, every movement, every breath. Eventually, I was forced to leave. I remember walking while my body begged me to stop. I could barely stay upright. Every few steps I wondered if I would collapse. The fever made the world blur around me, and my kidneys felt like they were on fire. I had nowhere to go. No bed waiting for me. No family opening a door. No certainty about where I would sleep that night. Walking beside me was my pregnant dog. She trusted me completely. As if life hadn't already asked enough of us, she went into labor. Yet somehow, instinct takes over when survival is your only option. I held onto hope because she depended on me, even when I wasn't sure I would survive the infection raging through my own body. People often imagine resilience as something beautiful or heroic. It isn't. Resilience is making impossible decisions because there are no good ones left. It's putting one foot in front of the other while your organs are failing. It's comforting another living soul while silently wondering if you'll wake up tomorrow. It's surviving not because you're fearless, but because giving up isn't an option. Eventually, I received medical care, and I learned how close sepsis can come to taking a life. Doctors explained that what had started as a kidney infection had become a medical emergency. I realize how fortunate I was to survive. But surviving sepsis wasn't the hardest part. The hardest part was realizing that no one should ever have to fight for their life while also fighting to escape abuse. They don't see the survivor choosing between returning to an abuser or sleeping outside. They don't see the strength it takes to keep caring for another life when your own hangs in the balance. Today, when I see someone struggling, I remember that the strongest people are often carrying battles no one else can see. Compassion can save a life. Believing someone can save a life. Offering safety instead of judgment can become the turning point in someone's story. Mine is proof that even in the darkest seasons, when illness, violence, fear, and uncertainty seem impossible to overcome, survival is possible. Healing is possible.

I intend to do the following Shelter to fight DV, The intended population for my shelter will be adults and older youth (18 years and older) who are survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault and who also live with a physical, intellectual, developmental, sensory, or mental health disability. The shelter will serve women and transgenders, races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Special attention will be given to individuals who face barriers accessing traditional domestic violence services due to mobility limitations, cognitive disabilities, hearing or vision impairments, mental illness, substance use disorders, or other challenges that increase their vulnerability to abuse. The shelter will primarily serve residents of Kelso, Longview, and the surrounding areas of Cowlitz County, Washington. Research heavily suggests that individuals with disabilities experience higher rates of abuse up to 10x higher than the general population and often face significant barriers when attempting to access safety, housing, transportation, legal services, and mental health treatment. While reports from agencies designed to serve domestic violence proved to under report the usage of these types of services by this population. Because there is currently no shelter in Kelso specifically designed to meet these needs, this program will help fill an important gap in services. In the short term, disabled survivors will have greater access to safe shelter, crisis intervention, emotional support, and advocacy services. This can reduce immediate danger and increase feelings of safety and empowerment. Research has shown that access to shelter services can significantly improve survivors' safety and mental health outcomes. In the long term, I expect improved housing stability, reduced rates of repeat victimization, improved mental health, increased employment opportunities, and stronger community connections for survivors. By creating strong partnerships with healthcare providers, disability services, law enforcement, and housing agencies, the shelter can create a coordinated community response that improves outcomes for these vulnerable populations. The greatest strength of this plan is that it addresses a population that is frequently under served, under reported, and overlooked. Individuals with disabilities often face additional barriers when seeking help,such as discrimination and prejudice and many traditional shelters are not fully equipped to meet their needs. This shelter would provide specialized services designed specifically for accessibility and trauma-informed care. One limitation is funding. Grant funding is known to be competitive and long-term sustainability requires multiple funding sources. Another limitation is staffing, as it may be difficult to recruit enough professionals with specialized training in both disability services and trauma-informed care. Finally, community awareness and trust will take time to build. Personally, I believe this project is of the utmost importance because every survivor deserves equal access to safety and support regardless of disability status. I know from experience that the challenges and barriers to receiving these supportive services are not always obtainable due to discrimination and that they are key to a quick recovery from such traumatic events.

My understanding of justice has been shaped not only by formal learning, but—more profoundly—by lived experience. While experiential knowledge has taught me how legal systems can fail those they are meant to protect, pursuing a formal education in law will provide the analytical tools, doctrinal grounding, and institutional access necessary to transform that understanding into meaningful reform. Together, these forms of knowledge constitute the foundation of my aspiration to study constitutional law and to advocate for systemic change. I am particularly drawn to constitutional law because it establishes the fundamental protections that govern all other legal frameworks. Yet, despite its primacy, constitutional rights are too often undermined in practice. Numerous individuals—especially those from marginalized communities—experience violations of their rights with little to no accountability for those responsible. This disconnect between constitutional ideals and institutional realities raises urgent questions about enforcement, oversight, and equity within the justice system. It is evident that the current operation of many legal and law enforcement institutions diveate significantly from the principles of justice envisioned by the nation’s founders. Through the books I have read, I have learned that systemic injustice is neither inevitable nor immutable. Authors and legal scholars consistently demonstrate that meaningful reform often begins with individuals who possess both critical knowledge of institutional failures and the education necessary to challenge them effectively. These readings have reinforced my belief that when informed, principled, and respected individuals come together, they can advocate for policy changes that ensure justice is applied as the law intends. I have also learned that change frequently begins with a single voice—one person willing to question injustice and persist in advocacy—ultimately inspiring others to join in collective action. My long-term goal is to contribute to organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union, whose mission centers on defending the rights of underrepresented and vulnerable populations. These include individuals with disabilities, racial and ethnic minorities, survivors of assault, and children who have experienced trauma. Many of these individuals not only endure primary harm but also suffer from what scholars identify as “secondary victimization”—the additional trauma inflicted by institutional responses that dismiss, distort, or mishandle their experiences. These experiences have shaped my belief that justice must be trauma-informed, equitable, and rooted in accountability. A legal education will enable me to address these systemic shortcomings through multiple avenues. First, I intend to engage in impact litigation that challenges unconstitutional practices, particularly those involving due process violations, discriminatory policing, and misrepresentations. Second, I aim to contribute to public policy reform by working alongside policy analysts and legislators to design safeguards that prevent secondary victimization. This could include mandating trauma-informed training for law enforcement officers, strengthening accountability mechanisms for misconduct, and implementing clearer standards for evidence handling and courtroom testimony. Additionally, reforming police education and training is critical. Law enforcement professionals must be equipped not only with technical skills but also with an understanding of implicit bias, gender dynamics, and the psychological impact of trauma. Instituting mandatory training in trauma-informed interviewing techniques and establishing independent oversight bodies to review allegations of misconduct are practical steps toward reducing bias and ensuring more equitable treatment of victims. Ultimately, my objective is to serve as both an advocate and a reformer—someone who amplifies the voices of those who have been marginalized while working to realign institutional practices with constitutional principles. By integrating my lived experience with rigorous legal training, I seek to help create a justice system that does not re-traumatize victims but instead upholds their dignity, protects their rights, and fosters genuine accountability.

My experiences with mental health challenges have profoundly shaped the person I am today, influencing my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. Growing up, I faced significant childhood adversity, including trauma, instability, and periods of fear and uncertainty. These experiences created emotional and psychological burdens that affected how I navigated life, from my ability to trust others to my perception of my own potential. Mental health challenges became both a reality I had to confront and a lens through which I learned to understand human complexity, empathy, and resilience. Struggling with anxiety, depression, and the lasting effects of trauma forced me to develop coping strategies and self-awareness at a young age. These struggles were not simply obstacles—they were catalysts for growth. I learned to identify triggers, seek support when necessary, and cultivate patience and compassion toward myself and others. Through therapy, reflection, and perseverance, I began to understand that mental health is not a weakness, but a part of the human experience that requires care, attention, and action. This understanding has shaped my approach to life, teaching me to approach challenges with resilience and intentionality rather than fear or avoidance. My mental health experiences have also shaped my relationships. I have learned to value trust, communication, and emotional honesty, understanding that genuine connections require vulnerability and patience. I have become more empathetic toward others, especially those facing hidden struggles or societal marginalization. This empathy fuels my desire to advocate for those who are overlooked or unsupported, recognizing that mental health challenges are often compounded by systemic inequities and social stigma. It has also strengthened my role as a parent, as I strive to model resilience, self-care, and emotional awareness for my child. These experiences have directly influenced my educational and career goals. I am committed to pursuing a degree that allows me to advocate for individuals facing adversity, trauma, or systemic barriers. My goal is to work in social work, public policy, or law, creating programs and policies that provide resources, protection, and empowerment to vulnerable populations. Mental health challenges have taught me that personal growth, education, and action are intertwined—that understanding human struggle is essential for creating meaningful impact. I approach my goals with the knowledge that resilience is built through adversity, and that supporting others requires both expertise and lived insight. Ultimately, my experiences with mental health have shaped a worldview grounded in empathy, resilience, and purpose. They have taught me that human suffering is both complex and universal, and that true impact comes from combining understanding with action. These experiences drive my commitment to personal growth, my dedication to education, and my desire to create change for others who are navigating challenges similar to my own. By embracing my mental health journey, I have gained the tools, perspective, and determination to pursue my goals and foster a more compassionate, just, and inclusive world.

One of the most significant losses I have experienced in my life was turning my father in for child abuse, an act that ultimately led to his release on bail and his subsequent suicide. This loss was deeply traumatic and complex, intertwining grief, guilt, and a profound sense of responsibility. At the time, reporting him was an act of necessity—I knew that protecting myself and others from harm was the right choice, even though it came at an emotional cost I could not fully comprehend. The consequences of that decision have shaped the person I am today, influencing my values, my outlook on life, and my determination to succeed in my education and future career. For twenty years, I carried the weight of anger, confusion, and sorrow. I struggled with feelings of guilt, wondering if I could have done something differently, and I wrestled with the pain of losing a parent under such tragic circumstances. Yet over time, I began to understand the necessity of the decision I made. Turning my father in was not an act of malice—it was an act of courage and moral responsibility. It affirmed my belief that protecting the vulnerable, even in the face of personal pain, is a principle worth upholding. It also taught me a difficult but invaluable lesson: that doing the right thing is not always easy, and sometimes it comes with consequences that must be endured with integrity and resilience. It has taken two decades, but I have come to a place of forgiveness—not to absolve him entirely, but to release the heavy burden I carried and to allow myself to live fully. I hope, in some way, he found forgiveness for me as well. This journey toward understanding and healing has fundamentally shaped the way I approach life. I have learned the importance of moral courage, accountability, and empathy. I have also learned that grief and loss, no matter how painful, can be transformative, fostering resilience, emotional depth, and a commitment to living with purpose. This experience has also profoundly influenced my goals and my educational journey. I am determined to succeed academically and professionally, knowing that my past does not define me, but that my choices moving forward do. The pain of this loss has instilled in me an unwavering resolve: I will not fail. I will pursue my education with diligence and focus, not only for myself but to honor the principles of courage, justice, and integrity that guided my actions in that moment of crisis. It has given me a clear sense of purpose, motivating me to create change, advocate for others, and use my life to make a positive impact on those who are vulnerable or silenced. Ultimately, the loss of my father in these circumstances has taught me that strength is forged in adversity. It has shaped my values, grounded my sense of morality, and strengthened my commitment to persevere through challenges. The experience has influenced every aspect of my life, from how I nurture my relationships to how I pursue my education and career. It reminds me daily that even the most painful choices, made with integrity, can lead to growth, healing, and a purposeful life.

Selected Paragraph: "One must still have chaos in oneself to be able to give birth to a dancing star. I tell you: you still have chaos in yourselves. Alas! The time is coming when man will no longer give birth to a star. Alas! The time of the most despicable man is coming, who cannot despise himself." —Friedrich Nietzsche, Thus Spoke Zarathustra, Part I, “On the Three Metamorphoses” Essay: Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophy consistently challenges conventional notions of morality, creativity, and human purpose. In the selected paragraph from Thus Spoke Zarathustra, Nietzsche asserts that true greatness and creative potential are born from chaos within oneself. The imagery of the “dancing star” represents the emergence of exceptional creation—be it intellectual, artistic, or moral—while chaos serves as the necessary precondition for this emergence. Nietzsche’s reflection on the “most despicable man” warns of the consequences of complacency, mediocrity, and the avoidance of self-examination. This paragraph encapsulates Nietzsche’s central argument that personal and cultural flourishing is contingent upon the willingness to embrace disorder, confront inner contradictions, and pursue self-overcoming (Überwindung). In this essay, I will explore the philosophical depth of this passage, connecting Nietzsche’s insights to the nature of human creativity, the cultivation of virtue, and the risks posed by societal and individual stagnation. At first glance, Nietzsche’s insistence on the necessity of chaos may seem counterintuitive, as chaos is often associated with disorder, instability, and harm. However, for Nietzsche, chaos is not destructive in a conventional sense; it is generative. The “chaos in oneself” refers to the internal complexity, contradictions, and unresolved tensions that every individual experiences. Nietzsche recognized that humans are not static beings; they are complex amalgamations of instincts, desires, and rational capacities. To ignore or suppress these inner conflicts is to deny the essential energies that drive growth and creativity. Chaos, then, is not an obstacle to be eliminated but a vital force to be engaged with consciously. It is within this internal turbulence that new values, insights, and innovations can emerge. The “dancing star” is Nietzsche’s metaphor for these emergent achievements—a symbol of brilliance and originality that captivates, inspires, and transcends the ordinary. The process of giving birth to a dancing star requires courage, self-reflection, and a willingness to navigate uncertainty, highlighting Nietzsche’s belief that greatness is inseparable from struggle. The paragraph also introduces a cautionary vision: “Alas! The time is coming when man will no longer give birth to a star.” Here, Nietzsche warns that humanity risks entering an era dominated by mediocrity—the “most despicable man” who “cannot despise himself.” The despicable man, in Nietzsche’s terminology, embodies complacency, superficiality, and moral cowardice. This figure lacks the capacity for self-examination, self-critique, and self-overcoming; he avoids the discomfort inherent in confronting inner chaos. By failing to recognize and challenge his limitations, he becomes incapable of creating, inspiring, or elevating culture. Nietzsche’s critique extends beyond the individual to society at large, suggesting that cultural stagnation arises when human beings collectively avoid the challenges of introspection and self-transformation. In this sense, Nietzsche is issuing both a moral and existential imperative: to live fully and creatively, one must engage with internal chaos rather than evade it. The concept of self-overcoming (Überwindung) is central to Nietzsche’s philosophical vision. Self-overcoming involves confronting and transcending one’s limitations, instincts, and inherited values. It is a continual process of growth, in which the individual refuses to remain constrained by convention, fear, or internal conflict. The “chaos” that Nietzsche emphasizes is intimately connected to this process: it is both the challenge and the material of self-overcoming. By wrestling with inner chaos, individuals can refine their character, cultivate originality, and achieve forms of excellence inaccessible to those who pursue comfort and predictability. In essence, chaos is the crucible in which human potential is forged, and the dancing star is the reward of disciplined engagement with it. Nietzsche’s metaphor also resonates with the nature of creativity and cultural innovation. Artists, philosophers, and visionaries often navigate intense internal tension, doubt, and conflict as they create works that challenge prevailing norms or expand human understanding. Chaos, in this context, is a source of generative energy, enabling individuals to conceive ideas and expressions that would otherwise remain impossible. Nietzsche implies that creativity and moral insight are not products of stability or complacency but are born from struggle, experimentation, and the courage to confront the unknown. The dancing star becomes a symbol not only of individual achievement but also of the potential for societal transformation—one person’s engagement with chaos can illuminate possibilities for an entire culture. Importantly, Nietzsche’s critique of the “most despicable man” is as much ethical as it is existential. Individuals who avoid self-reflection and fail to cultivate their capacities contribute to the decline of culture and moral vitality. Nietzsche’s use of the word “despicable” conveys moral judgment, but it also carries a warning: without courage, introspection, and engagement with chaos, human beings risk reducing life to superficiality, comfort, and inertia. The absence of self-overcoming diminishes the possibility of originality, empathy, and meaningful action. In this light, Nietzsche’s philosophy is deeply practical: it is a call to recognize the stakes of our internal and cultural choices, to embrace difficulty as a vehicle for growth, and to commit to the lifelong work of shaping oneself and, by extension, the world. A common misinterpretation of this passage is to equate chaos with recklessness or moral anarchy. While Nietzsche celebrates the creative potential of chaos, he does not advocate disorder for its own sake. The chaos he identifies must be navigated consciously, integrated through reflection, and harnessed toward self-overcoming and creation. The disciplined engagement with chaos distinguishes the “dancing star” from randomness or destructiveness. It is this integration—turning turbulence into insight—that constitutes human excellence in Nietzschean terms. Beyond individual development, the passage has profound societal implications. Societies, like individuals, can become stagnant when conformity, comfort, and fear of challenge dominate. Nietzsche’s vision of the dancing star serves as a model not only for personal flourishing but for cultural renewal. When individuals engage with their own chaos and cultivate self-overcoming, they contribute to innovation, ethical insight, and cultural vitality. Conversely, widespread avoidance of chaos—manifested in superficiality, passive consumption, or fear of introspection—leads to mediocrity and social stagnation. Nietzsche thus links individual growth and cultural flourishing, demonstrating that the cultivation of inner complexity is inseparable from the advancement of human civilization. In conclusion, Nietzsche’s paragraph from Thus Spoke Zarathustra captures the paradoxical relationship between chaos and creation. True greatness arises not from order, comfort, or avoidance of conflict, but from the conscious engagement with the complexities and contradictions within oneself. Chaos is generative, providing the raw material for self-overcoming and the birth of the “dancing star,” a symbol of creativity, moral insight, and human excellence. The warning against the “most despicable man” underscores the dangers of complacency, mediocrity, and refusal to confront internal challenges. Ultimately, Nietzsche’s message is both personal and cultural: to live fully, to create meaning, and to contribute to human flourishing, we must embrace our chaos, harness it through disciplined reflection, and transform it into acts of originality, courage, and ethical growth. Through this engagement, individuals and societies alike can realize their potential, ensuring that the stars continue to be born in a world too often tempted by comfort, stagnation, and fear.

Balancing education with the responsibilities of being a single parent is one of the greatest challenges I have faced, but it is also one of the most meaningful. My son is my motivation, and providing him with stability, opportunity, and a strong example of perseverance has always guided my decisions. At the same time, I am committed to my education because I know it is the pathway to a better future for both of us. Balancing these priorities requires structure, resilience, and careful planning, and I have developed strategies that allow me to pursue my academic goals while being fully present for my child. I prioritize my time intentionally, organizing my schedule around both academic obligations and family responsibilities. I plan study sessions during early mornings, evenings, or weekends, while dedicating quality daytime hours to my son. I also rely on support networks of friends, mentors, and community programs when necessary to ensure that my educational pursuits do not come at the expense of my child’s well-being. Over the years, I have learned that balance is not about perfection—it is about commitment, adaptability, and consistently making choices that reflect my values of family, growth, and perseverance. In addition to time management, I approach both parenting and education with the same mindset: resilience and intentional effort. As a single mother who has experienced adversity, including trauma, financial instability, and health challenges, I have developed the ability to face obstacles without losing focus on long-term goals. These experiences have strengthened my determination and problem-solving skills, qualities that I bring to both my academic work and my parenting. I understand that pursuing a degree while raising a child is demanding, but I am committed to meeting that challenge head-on, step by step, while modeling perseverance for my son. This scholarship would play a vital role in helping me achieve this balance and ultimately complete my degree. Financial support would reduce the pressure of covering tuition, textbooks, and living expenses while raising a child, allowing me to dedicate more energy and attention to my studies. It would also provide the stability needed to maintain focus on academic excellence while fulfilling my parental responsibilities. Beyond financial assistance, receiving this scholarship would be an affirmation of my efforts, reinforcing the importance of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of opportunity. Earning my degree is not only a personal goal—it is a pathway to creating meaningful change for my family and my community. By successfully balancing education and parenting, I hope to demonstrate to my son and others that challenges can be overcome with perseverance and planning. Through my academic achievements, I aim to create opportunities that will allow me to advocate for others, pursue a career in social work and public policy, and work toward systemic changes that address inequity and support vulnerable populations. In summary, balancing education with parenting requires intentional planning, resilience, and commitment, all of which I bring to this challenge. This scholarship would provide the critical support I need to maintain that balance, complete my degree, and continue building a future defined by opportunity, advocacy, and service—for both my son and the broader community.

My experience with addiction began as a way to cope with trauma and instability in my early life. Growing up, I faced significant adversities, including neglect, abuse, and a lack of safety, which left me seeking control and escape. By my teenage years, I was experimenting with substances, and over time, this developed into a period of sustained addiction. The experience was isolating, chaotic, and filled with fear, as I struggled to maintain even the most basic stability for myself and, eventually, for my son. Addiction affected every part of my life—my health, my relationships, and my ability to pursue goals. It was a constant battle between survival and self-destruction. The turning point for me came in 2007 when I made the conscious decision to seek treatment and reclaim my life. Completing treatment required an extraordinary commitment to self-reflection, discipline, and perseverance. It meant confronting the underlying trauma that had contributed to my addiction, taking responsibility for my choices, and learning how to navigate life without substances as a crutch. Recovery was not immediate or easy—it demanded daily effort and the courage to face both my past and my future. Yet through determination, I was able to overcome addiction, regain stability, and begin rebuilding my life for myself and my son. Since becoming sober, my life has transformed profoundly. I have pursued education with renewed focus, understanding that knowledge is a tool to create opportunity and effect change. I became involved in community programs, such as the Community Jobs Program, where my story was shared by U.S. Representative Linda Smith to inspire others who face adversity. I have also volunteered with organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union and Shared Hope International, applying my experiences to advocacy and service that help others in need. Sobriety has allowed me to become a more present parent, a committed student, and a purposeful advocate, using my personal journey as a foundation to make a positive impact on the lives of others. My experience with addiction has shaped my career goals and inspired my educational path. I am pursuing a degree in social work and public policy, with the ultimate goal of continuing to law school to specialize in constitutional law. I want to help individuals who face challenges similar to those I once faced, particularly those affected by addiction, trauma, and systemic inequities. By combining my lived experience with professional knowledge, I plan to create programs, advocacy initiatives, and support systems that address both the personal and systemic factors that contribute to addiction. I hope to mentor, guide, and empower others, providing the resources, empathy, and advocacy they need to rebuild their lives and regain control. Overcoming addiction has given me a unique perspective: I understand both the vulnerability and the resilience of those struggling with substance use. Through education, I aim to translate my experience into meaningful action, helping others navigate recovery, access opportunities, and break cycles of trauma and addiction. My journey has taught me that transformation is possible, and I am committed to using that knowledge to create pathways of hope, support, and empowerment for others.

I believe that empathy and understanding are cultivated through lived experience, listening, and action. My unique talents and skills—resilience, advocacy, and a deep understanding of human struggle—have been shaped by my personal journey as a single mother who has endured childhood trauma, poverty, domestic violence, and health challenges. These experiences have given me a firsthand understanding of hardship and the importance of compassion, patience, and effective support. I plan to use these abilities to build a more empathetic and understanding global community by combining personal insight with education, advocacy, and service. One of my key skills is the ability to connect with individuals who are marginalized or vulnerable. Having navigated systemic barriers myself, I understand the emotional and practical challenges faced by those who are often overlooked or silenced. I use this understanding to listen actively, provide support, and advocate for solutions that address both immediate needs and long-term inequities. Whether through volunteer work with organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union, community initiatives with Shared Hope International, or local programs such as the Elks Lodge #1482, I have applied this skill to create meaningful change. These experiences have taught me that empathy is not passive—it is action-oriented and requires dedication, patience, and persistence. Education is another talent I bring to this mission. I have developed critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills through my pursuit of higher education in social work, public policy, and criminal justice. These skills allow me to analyze complex social issues, identify systemic inequities, and design strategies that promote fairness and inclusion. By combining personal insight with professional expertise, I am able to approach challenges with both compassion and effectiveness, creating solutions that respect human dignity while addressing root causes. I also bring resilience and determination, which enable me to navigate obstacles while remaining committed to positive change. Having overcome addiction, trauma, and systemic barriers, I understand the importance of perseverance in creating impact. These qualities allow me to engage with communities globally and locally, fostering dialogue, collaboration, and understanding even in the face of resistance or difficulty. My vision for building a more empathetic and understanding global community involves advocacy, education, and policy. I aim to raise awareness of systemic inequities, human rights issues, and social injustices, while also contributing to initiatives that provide tangible support to affected communities. I plan to mentor and guide others, especially youth and marginalized populations, helping them develop the tools, knowledge, and confidence to advocate for themselves and others. By sharing my story and insights, I hope to inspire empathy and action in those around me, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond local communities to global networks of understanding and cooperation. Ultimately, my unique talents—resilience, empathy, advocacy, and education—equip me to transform personal experience into meaningful action. By using these skills to listen, connect, and create systemic solutions, I am committed to building a global community grounded in compassion, equity, and understanding, where every individual’s dignity is respected and their potential is supported.v

I am a single mother who has faced significant challenges throughout my life, including childhood adversity, trauma, financial hardship, and periods of instability. These experiences have shaped my values, resilience, and commitment to helping others, particularly those who are vulnerable and often overlooked. Through education and personal growth, I have developed a deep sense of purpose: to use my experiences and skills to advocate for and support individuals with special needs, ensuring they receive the care, respect, and opportunities they deserve. My passion for serving individuals with special needs stems from my understanding of how systemic barriers, limited resources, and social inequities can impact the most vulnerable populations. I have witnessed firsthand how challenges—whether social, physical, or cognitive—can compound when individuals lack support or advocacy. I know that even small acts of assistance, encouragement, and inclusion can transform lives, and I want to dedicate my career to creating that transformation on a broader scale. Through my education in social work and public policy, I am preparing to develop the skills necessary to provide both direct service and systemic advocacy. I plan to work closely with individuals with special needs and their families, providing support, guidance, and resources that help them navigate educational systems, healthcare, and social services. My goal is to ensure that these individuals have the tools and opportunities to thrive, empowering them to participate fully in their communities. In addition to direct support, I am committed to advocating for systemic change. I want to contribute to policies and programs that promote inclusion, accessibility, and equity for people with special needs. By addressing structural barriers—such as inadequate funding for specialized education, limited access to healthcare, and social stigma—I hope to create environments in which all individuals are treated with dignity, have access to opportunity, and are empowered to reach their full potential. My life experiences have equipped me with empathy, patience, and determination, all of which are critical in this field. As a single mother who has navigated adversity and overcome personal obstacles, I understand the importance of advocacy, persistence, and community support. I have volunteered with organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union and Shared Hope International, engaging in advocacy and community service that has strengthened my commitment to social impact. I have also volunteered with the Elks Lodge #1482, supporting children with educational resources and community programs. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the power of service and the impact one individual can have when dedication is combined with knowledge and compassion. Ultimately, my goal is to create a positive, lasting impact for individuals with special needs by combining direct service, advocacy, and policy reform. I want to ensure that every person I serve has access to the resources, respect, and opportunities they deserve, and that systemic barriers are challenged so that inclusion becomes standard, not exceptional. By dedicating my education, experience, and career to this mission, I aim to build a more equitable, inclusive, and compassionate community for all.

My career of choice is in social work and public policy, with the ultimate goal of pursuing law, specializing in constitutional law. I am passionate about this path because it allows me to advocate for individuals who are unable to stand up for justice on their own and to challenge the systemic inequalities that have long affected marginalized communities. Growing up with childhood adversities, experiencing trauma, poverty, and instability, I understand firsthand how barriers—both social and institutional—can limit opportunity and safety. These experiences have shaped my values and inspired me to dedicate my education and career to promoting fairness, inclusion, and equality. I am particularly motivated to work in social justice, public policy, and law because I have seen the impact that advocacy and systemic reform can have on people’s lives. I want to serve survivors of domestic violence, families facing poverty, and individuals affected by institutional discrimination. I aspire to work with organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union or ProPublica to influence policies, defend rights, and give voice to those who are often overlooked. My lived experience informs my commitment to this work: I know what it feels like to be vulnerable, unheard, and marginalized, and I want to use my education to ensure that others do not have to face injustice alone. Accomplishing my personal and educational goals has required significant sacrifices. As a single mother, I have balanced the full responsibility of raising my son with the demands of academic life. I have endured periods of homelessness, financial insecurity, and health challenges, including managing a chronic autoimmune condition, all while striving to maintain high academic performance. I have worked multiple jobs to provide for basic needs, from rent and utilities to food and transportation, often sacrificing sleep and personal time to stay on track with my education. These sacrifices have been difficult, but they have taught me resilience, discipline, and the importance of perseverance. Every challenge I have faced has strengthened my commitment to my goals and clarified my purpose. Beyond the personal, I have also devoted time to community service while pursuing my education. I have volunteered with the American Civil Liberties Union, assisting with donor outreach and organizing community engagement. I am training with Shared Hope International to advocate against child trafficking and forced sex work and plan to hold awareness events on college campuses. I have volunteered with the Elks Lodge #1482 for years, supporting educational initiatives for children, providing reading glasses, and organizing holiday events. These experiences have allowed me to apply the lessons I have learned from hardship toward helping others, reinforcing my passion for a career focused on advocacy, social justice, and community empowerment. Choosing this career and pursuing higher education has not been easy, but it is meaningful. The sacrifices I have made—financial, personal, and emotional—reflect my determination to build a better life for my family and to create a lasting impact in my community. Education is not just a personal goal; it is a tool to equip me to serve, advocate, and drive systemic change. Ultimately, I am passionate about social work, public policy, and law because they allow me to turn my experiences into purpose, transforming personal adversity into opportunities for justice, equity, and empowerment. By committing myself to this career path, I hope to leave a legacy of service that strengthens individuals, families, and communities who need it most.

I am a single mother who has faced significant challenges throughout my life. Growing up with childhood adversities, I experienced trauma, instability, and barriers that have impacted me in many ways. These experiences, while difficult, have shaped my values, perspective, and passion for serving others. They have given me a deep understanding of what it means to face systemic inequities and personal obstacles, and they have inspired me to dedicate my life and education to helping those who are unable to stand up for justice on their own. My personal experiences with poverty, domestic challenges, and social marginalization have shown me how structural inequalities affect real people every day. I have navigated life with limited resources, often balancing survival with the need to provide for my child, and I have witnessed firsthand how systems meant to protect people can fail them. These experiences have fueled my desire to create meaningful change in the community and to advocate for those who are marginalized, silenced, or disadvantaged. I understand that justice is not always accessible to everyone, and this understanding has shaped my decision to pursue higher education as a pathway to equip myself to serve others more effectively. I am particularly committed to promoting equality, inclusion, and fairness in all aspects of community life. I aspire to use my education to address systemic barriers that prevent individuals from fully participating in society, whether those barriers involve discrimination, bias, or lack of resources. My goal is to empower people who are often overlooked or silenced, providing them with support, guidance, and advocacy so that they can access their rights and opportunities. I want to contribute to creating a community in which inclusion is the norm, discrimination is actively challenged, and every person is treated with dignity and respect. Serving others is both a personal mission and a professional goal. I plan to work in roles where I can advocate for individuals facing injustice, help families navigate complex social systems, and participate in initiatives that foster equity and opportunity. By combining my lived experience with education, I can offer both empathy and expertise—understanding the human realities behind systemic inequities while using my knowledge to address them strategically. This dual approach allows me to make a difference on both personal and systemic levels, ensuring that my work has lasting impact. Receiving this scholarship would enable me to continue my education and strengthen my ability to serve my community. It would provide the resources and stability necessary to focus on my academic and professional goals while continuing to advocate for others. More than financial support, it would serve as recognition of my dedication to transforming personal hardship into meaningful action. Ultimately, my life experiences have instilled in me a sense of responsibility and purpose. I am motivated by the belief that those who have faced adversity are uniquely positioned to help others navigate similar challenges. Through education, advocacy, and service, I aim to build a more equal, inclusive, and just community—one in which every individual has the opportunity to stand up for themselves and thrive.

Drugs, including fentanyl and other substances, have had a profound impact on my life and family, shaping both the challenges I have faced and the perspective I bring to my work in criminal justice. Growing up with childhood trauma and adversity, I found myself seeking safety and escape in ways that ultimately led me down a path of substance use. At the age of 14, I often felt safer running away than staying in dangerous circumstances at home, and that sense of vulnerability carried into my adulthood. Addiction became a barrier to stability, safety, and opportunity, both for me and for my son, whom I would eventually raise on my own. Despite these challenges, I was determined to change my path. In 2007, I completed a treatment program and committed myself to recovery. Overcoming addiction required unwavering willpower, self-reflection, and a willingness to confront my past. That decision opened doors I never imagined. I became involved in the Community Jobs Program, where my story was highlighted by U.S. Representative Linda Smith as an example of determination and resilience. Sharing my experience of overcoming childhood trauma, substance abuse, and single parenthood allowed me to inspire others while reinforcing my own commitment to personal growth. My experiences with addiction have fueled my passion for pursuing a degree in criminal justice. I have seen firsthand how systemic inequities, trauma, and lack of support contribute to cycles of substance abuse and criminalization. I understand that addressing drug-related issues in communities requires more than enforcement—it requires education, prevention programs, trauma-informed policies, and advocacy for equitable treatment. Through my studies, I am gaining the knowledge and skills to influence policy, work with at-risk populations, and implement solutions that focus on rehabilitation and community support rather than punishment alone. I am particularly motivated to use my education to give back to my community and prevent others from experiencing the hardships I endured. I plan to work in areas that address addiction and its underlying causes, including trauma-informed programming, public policy reform, and advocacy for individuals affected by the criminal justice system due to substance-related offenses. By combining my lived experience with academic knowledge, I aim to bridge the gap between policy and real-world impact, helping to create programs that promote recovery, stability, and opportunity for families facing addiction. Overcoming addiction as a single mother was not only a personal victory; it also became a foundation for purpose. My journey has taught me the importance of resilience, empathy, and community engagement. It has shown me that even in the face of significant adversity, it is possible to create change—not only in one’s own life but in the lives of others. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus fully on completing my criminal justice degree and building the professional skills necessary to implement meaningful solutions for addiction and related social issues. It would provide the stability and support I need to continue pursuing academic excellence while preparing to give back to my community. My goal is to turn my experiences with trauma and substance abuse into tools for advocacy, education, and reform, ensuring that others have access to the resources, understanding, and opportunities that were so critical to my own recovery. Through determination, education, and community service, I am ready to transform the challenges I have faced into solutions that strengthen families, prevent addiction, and create lasting impact in the communities I serve.

I have long been committed to addressing social issues through both direct volunteer work and advocacy, using my experiences to guide meaningful action. One social issue I am particularly passionate about is systemic oppression and human exploitation, and I have pursued opportunities to make tangible contributions to these causes in my community. Recently, I have volunteered with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), assisting with donor outreach and organizing reminders for meetings. This work may seem administrative on the surface, but I have witnessed how every phone call, reminder, and conversation contributes to the larger mission of protecting civil liberties and combating systemic oppression. By helping ensure that donors and supporters stay engaged, I am contributing to the operational backbone of an organization that advocates for equal rights and justice nationwide. This experience has deepened my understanding of how consistent, dedicated efforts at every level—no matter how small they may seem—can amplify social impact. I am also training with Shared Hope International to become a spokes model advocating against child trafficking and forced sex work. This initiative is deeply personal to me, as I have seen firsthand how systemic inequities make individuals vulnerable to exploitation. My goal is to hold an event on the Clark College campus next fall to educate students, raise awareness, and empower young people to take action. By using my voice to inform and mobilize others, I hope to help break cycles of exploitation and create tangible pathways for prevention. One particularly meaningful experience occurred in 2009 during a Shared Hope International fundraiser at the Lion Hotel, where we raised $16,000 for the community jobs program. During that event, U.S. Representative Linda Smith shared my story—highlighting the challenges I had endured and overcome—which helped motivate others to contribute to meaningful programs. Seeing my personal experience inspire tangible community impact reinforced my belief that individual resilience can translate into advocacy that changes lives. My commitment to community service extends beyond advocacy for human rights. I have volunteered for the Elks Lodge #1482 for many years, helping to provide schoolbooks, reading glasses, and holiday events for children in my community. I have also served at large fundraising dinners that directly supported local programs, such as community jobs initiatives. Across these experiences, I have learned that addressing social issues requires both personal dedication and collaboration. Volunteer work, fundraising, and advocacy all require persistence, organization, and a willingness to engage others in a shared vision. These activities have strengthened my leadership skills, my ability to communicate effectively, and my commitment to service. More importantly, they have reinforced my understanding that social change is both systemic and personal—it requires advocacy at the policy level, as well as action in the local community. Through these ongoing efforts, I am working to create a measurable impact on the issues I care most about: systemic oppression, human trafficking, and the well-being of underserved children. Each phone call I make, each event I organize, and each hour I volunteer contributes to a larger chain reaction of awareness, resources, and empowerment. By continuing to build on these experiences and combining them with my education, I hope to extend my ability to influence policy, advocate for vulnerable populations, and help create a community where justice, opportunity, and protection are accessible to all.

The courage to return to school at forty-six years of age comes from both necessity and purpose. As a single mother who has survived domestic violence, periods of homelessness, financial hardship, and the challenges of managing a chronic autoimmune disease, I have faced obstacles that could have easily defined my future. Instead, those experiences became the foundation of my resilience and the driving force behind my decision to pursue higher education. I realized that education was the only pathway to breaking the cycle of instability for my son and for myself, and it became a way to transform hardship into meaningful impact. Much of my courage stems from the challenges I have already endured. Living below the poverty line while raising my son alone required constant sacrifice and perseverance. Navigating daily life without a support system, while keeping up with academic goals, taught me to adapt, prioritize, and maintain focus even in the face of uncertainty. Managing my health alongside these responsibilities further strengthened my resilience. I have learned that fear and exhaustion do not dictate ability—persistence does. Every difficulty I have overcome has prepared me to tackle the challenges of returning to school with determination and purpose. My son is my greatest motivation. I want him to grow up seeing that challenges do not determine destiny, and that perseverance and education can create opportunity. Every late night spent studying or completing assignments is an investment not only in my future, but in his understanding of resilience and possibility. By modeling determination, I hope to instill in him the belief that no circumstance is insurmountable and that pursuing one’s goals, even against tremendous odds, is always worth the effort. Returning to school also reflects a broader purpose. My experiences have exposed me to systemic inequities—inequalities in housing, legal protections, and access to resources—that affect many families like mine. They have shaped my academic and career goals, inspiring me to pursue a liberal arts transfer degree, followed by a bachelor’s in public policy and the psychology of law, and eventually law school to specialize in constitutional law. My ambition is to advocate for civil rights and equitable policy, working with organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union or ProPublica to challenge systemic injustices and fight for those whose voices are too often ignored. My lived experience gives me unique insight into the human impact of policy, and I intend to use that perspective to create meaningful change. This scholarship would make it possible for me to focus fully on my studies and professional development without the constant strain of financial instability. It would provide critical support for my family while allowing me to invest my energy into achieving academic excellence and preparing to serve my community. Beyond financial assistance, receiving this scholarship would affirm the value of perseverance, resilience, and the commitment to use education for the greater good. Returning to school required courage, but it is courage rooted in purpose. It is the courage to choose hope over fear, action over limitation, and advocacy over complacency. My experiences have shaped who I am, but they do not define what I can achieve. Through education, I am determined to transform adversity into opportunity—not only for myself and my son, but for the communities I hope to serve. This journey is about resilience, service, and creating a future defined by impact, justice, and possibility.

A defining turning point in my life occurred when I experienced homelessness with my young son while trying to continue my education. That period of instability was not a single moment, but a chain reaction of circumstances—domestic violence, financial hardship, and the absence of a support system—that forced me to confront how fragile stability can be. What began as a crisis ultimately became the experience that reshaped my perspective and motivated my chosen field of study. During that time, I navigated shelters, temporary housing, and uncertainty while attempting to maintain my academic responsibilities and provide emotional security for my child. I saw firsthand how complex systems—housing assistance, legal protections, and social services—often fail the very individuals they are meant to support. The experience exposed me to structural barriers that cannot be fully understood from textbooks alone: the difficulty of accessing safe housing, the stigma attached to seeking help, and the emotional toll of living without security. It became clear to me that hardship is rarely the result of individual failure; rather, it is often rooted in systemic inequities that limit access to opportunity and protection. This realization transformed my sense of purpose. Instead of viewing education solely as a pathway to personal stability, I began to see it as a tool for advocacy and reform. My experiences motivated me to pursue studies in public policy and the psychology of law so I can better understand how legal systems shape human behavior and social outcomes. I want to contribute to policy development and legal advocacy that addresses the root causes of inequality, particularly for individuals facing housing insecurity, domestic violence, and poverty. That period of hardship also reshaped my values. It deepened my empathy, strengthened my resilience, and instilled a commitment to service grounded in lived experience. Managing these challenges while raising my son reinforced my belief that meaningful change requires both compassion and systemic action. I am driven not only by what I endured, but by what I witnessed in others who faced similar struggles without adequate support. What began as a moment of crisis became a catalyst for direction and purpose. It motivated my pursuit of higher education and clarified my commitment to using knowledge as a means of advocacy. My goal is to transform personal adversity into informed action that supports vulnerable communities and promotes equitable policy. This experience did not define my limitations; it defined my calling.

I am a single mother pursuing higher education with a clear purpose: to transform adversity into advocacy and create a more stable future for my child and my community. My path to college has not been traditional. I have navigated domestic violence, periods of homelessness, financial hardship, and the daily demands of parenting without a reliable support system. In addition, I manage a chronic autoimmune condition that affects my health and energy. These challenges have required resilience, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Rather than deterring me, they have strengthened my determination to pursue education as a pathway to stability, empowerment, and meaningful service. My experiences have shaped my core values of perseverance, empathy, and justice. Living through instability has given me firsthand insight into how systemic barriers affect individuals and families, particularly those facing poverty, trauma, and limited access to resources. These realities inspired me to pursue a liberal arts transfer degree with plans to continue my education in public policy and law. My long-term goal is to advocate for individuals and communities impacted by inequality by helping shape policies that protect rights, expand opportunity, and address root causes of hardship. Education represents more than personal advancement for me—it is a responsibility. As a mother, I am committed to providing my son with stability, opportunity, and an example of resilience grounded in purpose. As a future professional, I intend to use my education to serve vulnerable populations and contribute to systemic change. My lived experiences have prepared me to approach this work with compassion, determination, and a deep understanding of the communities I hope to serve. This scholarship will play a critical role in helping me achieve these goals. Financial barriers remain one of the greatest challenges to my continued education. The rising cost of living, educational expenses, and the responsibility of supporting my child while managing health challenges create significant strain. Scholarship support would reduce this burden, allowing me to focus more fully on academic excellence, professional preparation, and community engagement. It would provide stability for my family and strengthen my ability to persist in my educational journey. By investing in my education, this scholarship would support not only a dedicated student, but a mother, future advocate, and community leader committed to creating positive change. I am determined to use every opportunity I am given to transform hardship into impact and to build a future defined by service, resilience, and possibility.

My decision to pursue higher education at this stage in my life is rooted in a journey shaped by adversity, resilience, and purpose. As a single mother, survivor of domestic violence, and individual managing a chronic autoimmune disease, I have experienced profound instability that reshaped my understanding of justice, opportunity, and responsibility. Rather than deterring me, these experiences clarified the necessity of education—not only to create stability for my family, but to transform lived hardship into meaningful advocacy and community impact. My early life was marked by trauma and instability that exposed me to the long-term effects of poverty and limited access to resources. As an adult, I navigated domestic violence, periods of homelessness, and financial insecurity while raising my son without the support of extended family. Living below the poverty line while pursuing academic goals requires constant sacrifice and perseverance. Managing a chronic health condition alongside parenting and coursework demands resilience and adaptability each day. These experiences have shaped my core values: perseverance, empathy, and a deep commitment to justice. I have learned that opportunity is not equally distributed, and meaningful change requires both personal determination and systemic reform. These experiences have directly shaped my career aspirations. I am pursuing a liberal arts transfer degree with the goal of enrolling as a junior at Washington State University to complete a bachelor’s degree in public policy and the psychology of law. I then intend to attend law school to specialize in constitutional law. My long-term objective is to advocate for civil rights and equitable policy development through organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union or ProPublica. Through legal advocacy and policy reform, I aim to address issues that have directly shaped my life, including housing insecurity, domestic violence, poverty, and institutional discrimination. My commitment to community service is grounded in lived experience. I intend to use my education to advocate for individuals experiencing housing instability, survivors of violence, and families navigating poverty. By combining academic knowledge with personal insight, I hope to contribute to policies and programs that promote inclusion, access, and protection for vulnerable populations. My goal is not only professional success, but measurable impact that helps break cycles of hardship for others. Higher education represents empowerment, responsibility, and the opportunity to transform adversity into action. Achieving financial stability and professional capacity will allow me to provide my son with security and opportunity while serving as an advocate for communities that often go unheard. This scholarship is essential to achieving these goals. Financial barriers remain one of the greatest challenges to my continued education. Scholarship support would provide stability that allows me to focus on academic excellence, professional preparation, and service to others. More importantly, it represents an investment in resilience, purpose, and community-centered leadership. My journey has taught me that hardship can either limit opportunity or inspire transformation. I have chosen transformation. Through education, I am determined to build a future defined by service, advocacy, and lasting impact for my family and my community.

My journey as a single mother pursuing higher education has been defined by profound life changes that have tested my stability, health, and resilience. While education is often described as a pathway to opportunity, for me it has also been a means of survival and transformation. Despite economic hardship, personal adversity, chronic health challenges, and the absence of a support system, I remain committed to academic excellence and to building a future that uplifts both my family and my community. One of the most significant challenges I face is maintaining stability while pursuing my education. The rising cost of living and the financial strain of meeting basic needs have required constant sacrifice and careful prioritization. I have survived domestic violence and periods of homelessness while carrying the full responsibility of raising my son alone. Living below the poverty line while striving to meet high academic standards demands discipline, focus, and emotional endurance. The realities of securing safe housing, affording necessities, and maintaining reliable transportation often compete with the time and energy required for academic success. Yet these hardships have not diminished my determination; instead, they have strengthened my resolve to create lasting change for my family. Managing these challenges, I manage an autoimmune disease that affects my physical health and energy levels. Navigating chronic illness while meeting academic and parental responsibilities requires consistent adaptability and perseverance. There are days when pain, fatigue, or medical demands threaten to interrupt my progress, yet I continue forward with determination. Learning to balance health management with educational goals has taught me resilience, self-discipline, and the importance of persistence in the face of uncertainty. These experiences have deepened my understanding of vulnerability and have strengthened my commitment to advocating for individuals who face systemic barriers related to health, poverty, and access to resources. My experiences are also shaped by childhood trauma that exposed me early to instability and hardship. Rather than allowing those experiences to define my future, they have become a source of purpose. I have come to understand that cycles of trauma and inequality persist when individuals lack access to opportunity, support, and justice. My personal history has instilled in me a profound determination to break those cycles—not only for my son, but for others who continue to face similar circumstances. I am motivated by the belief that lived experience can inform meaningful advocacy and that personal adversity can be transformed into a force for systemic change. Despite these hardships, my educational journey has been deeply fulfilling. Each academic milestone represents more than intellectual growth; it represents resilience in action. Maintaining strong academic performance while confronting significant barriers has affirmed my belief in the transformative power of education. Through my studies, I have developed critical thinking skills, empathy, and a commitment to service that extend beyond personal advancement. Education has provided not only knowledge, but also direction and purpose. It has empowered me to envision a future in which my experiences contribute to structural reform and community empowerment. My academic goal is to complete a liberal arts transfer degree and enroll as a junior at Washington State University, where I will pursue a bachelor’s degree in public policy and the psychology of law. This interdisciplinary focus will allow me to examine how legal frameworks intersect with human behavior, social systems, and institutional structures. I intend to continue to law school to specialize in constitutional law, equipping myself with the legal expertise necessary to advocate effectively for civil rights and social justice. My long-term objective is to serve as an advocate addressing systemic inequality through policy reform and legal advocacy. I aspire to work with organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union, where I could contribute to protecting constitutional rights and challenging discriminatory practices, or ProPublica, where research and investigative work can illuminate injustice and influence public policy. Through these pathways, I seek to address issues that have directly shaped my life, including housing insecurity, domestic violence, poverty, and institutional discrimination. My lived experiences provide insight into how systemic barriers affect marginalized communities, and my education will provide the tools necessary to challenge those barriers effectively. Further education represents not only personal advancement but also a pathway to uplift my family and contribute to meaningful social change. By achieving financial stability and professional capacity, I will be able to provide my son with security, opportunity, and an example of perseverance grounded in purpose. More broadly, I intend to use my education to advocate for policies that promote equity, inclusion, and protection for vulnerable populations. My goal is to transform personal hardship into informed advocacy that benefits individuals and communities facing similar challenges. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate critical financial barriers that threaten my educational progress and would provide essential stability for my family as I continue this path. The support would allow me to focus more fully on academic achievement, professional preparation, and community engagement. More importantly, it would represent an investment in resilience, determination, and community-centered leadership. My experiences have taught me that adversity does not preclude success; rather, it can cultivate the insight and determination necessary to pursue justice with authenticity and purpose. I have not endured hardship without meaning. Each challenge—poverty, displacement, chronic illness, trauma, and single parenthood—has strengthened my commitment to breaking cycles of suffering and inequity. Education represents empowerment, responsibility, and the opportunity to transform adversity into action. By investing in my education, this scholarship would support not only an individual student, but a mother, a future legal advocate, and a voice for communities striving for dignity and justice. I remain steadfast in my pursuit of knowledge, determined to build a future defined not by hardship, but by resilience, service, and lasting impact.

My journey as a single mother pursuing higher education has been defined by perseverance under extraordinary circumstances. While education is often viewed as a pathway to opportunity, for me it has also been an act of survival, resilience, and purpose. Despite economic hardship, personal adversity, and the absence of a support system, I remain committed to academic excellence and to building a future that will uplift both my family and my community. One of the most significant challenges I face is maintaining stability while pursuing my education. The rising cost of living and the financial strain of meeting basic needs have required constant sacrifice. I have experienced domestic violence and periods of homelessness while carrying the full responsibility of raising my son alone. Living below the poverty line while striving to meet high academic standards demands discipline, focus, and emotional endurance. Balancing coursework, parenting, and financial insecurity is not simply difficult—it is a daily test of resilience. Yet I continue to persevere, motivated by the conviction that education is the most powerful tool I have to transform our circumstances. Equally challenging has been navigating this path without familial support. The emotional burden of isolation and uncertainty can be overwhelming. However, my role as a mother strengthens my resolve. My son is both my inspiration and my purpose. His future depends on the opportunities I am working to create today, and that responsibility fuels my determination to succeed academically and personally. Despite these hardships, my educational journey has been profoundly fulfilling. Each academic achievement represents not only intellectual growth but also resilience in the face of adversity. Maintaining strong academic performance while overcoming significant barriers has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of education. My experiences have cultivated empathy, discipline, and a deep commitment to service. They have shaped my vision for using education not solely as a means of personal advancement, but as a foundation for advocacy and systemic change. My academic goal is to complete a liberal arts transfer degree and enroll as a junior at Washington State University, where I will pursue a bachelor’s degree in public policy and the psychology of law. I then intend to attend law school to specialize in constitutional law. My long-term objective is to advocate for civil rights and social justice through organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union or ProPublica. Through this work, I aim to challenge systemic inequalities, address poverty affecting marginalized communities, and defend the constitutional rights of individuals whose voices are too often overlooked. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate financial barriers that threaten my educational progress, but it would also affirm the value of resilience, determination, and community-centered purpose. I have not endured hardship without meaning; rather, those experiences have strengthened my commitment to creating meaningful change. Education represents both empowerment and responsibility, and I am prepared to use it to advocate for justice, equity, and opportunity. By investing in my education, this scholarship would support not only an individual student, but a mother, a future advocate, and a voice for communities striving for stability and dignity. I remain steadfast in my pursuit of knowledge, determined to transform adversity into impact and to build a future defined not by hardship, but by possibility.

My autoimmune disease first affected my life negatively, impacting not only my feelings, but my mental and physical well being as well. Moreso, I my social life suffered, too. The complications of an autoimmune disease is-so-overbearing it changes the way you think, feel, how you look at yourself, at others, the world, and the way you live. The impact of being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease was such a huge life changing event; it is the direct reason I am trying to obtain an education. Feeling the extreme importance of getting things done, to prepare for life to end. Is what made me realize that I never got to accomplish all the things I needed to, in order to die a happy person, or at least be at peace with myself. If I was to go today, with the amount of things I never got to do because of struggling with a past of hardships such as; child abuse, homelessness, a parental suicide, and being raped. I realized there's been more turmoil than any good and I need to change that before I leave this world. That's why I am dedicating all my energy to my pursuit in education. I've always dreamt of being able to graduate with a degree in Medical Administration Management, or Psychology and I believe doing so would further help me not only become a better person, but also allow me the credentials to offer a top notch employer the highly skilled and experienced employee that they deserve. It let me stand out further than other applicants in my chosen field and give me a chance to be at the top of my competition. Life is such a short time here on earth and you don't really notice how fast the time really goes until you are confronted with an event; such as having an autoimmune disease. It is an eye opener to so many things. Like what's on your bucket list. How I can leave a positive example on the word after dealing with so many setbacks. Also, how I can leave a lasting impression on my children to ensure they are going to be strong enough to hold on without me or see that they can reach for the stars and accomplish big things too. I also need to make my family proud and that is a very big deal to me and my life is affected very much by feeling the pressure of not being able to. That is why this scholarship is so important to me and my life. To be successful in graduating I will need to afford the costs and I am living at below poverty as is. I am in my fourth quarter and already have had a set back from having to withdraw; l due to covid half way through my winter quarter. However, I am remaining positive as I apply for scholarships. In conclusion, I want to die feeling accomplished in life. I have enough time left to follow my heart and finish my dream of being a graduate and to start my career in the Medical Industry. I know the importance my role as a leader will have on patients and I have a lot of compassion to professionally offer to people who are suffering from disease and/or illnesses, much as I am. I don't know how long I have, but I know I can give my all to my education and my dream career for the remaining time I do and that in itself is enough to make my end, a peacefull one!

I inspire yo make an impact on the world by spreading love and not hate. There is not one person on earth that is better than the next, nor is there anyone color, race, creed, religion, educated, uneducated, high society, or lower class individual that is better than the next. We all breathe to live, eat to not starve, and bleed when we are cut the same color. Therefore I am happy to inspire and promote wellness for all. I am always trying to spread happiness, and when I see someone in need, they do not have to ask me. I see there need and will offer my best assistance in whatever I can manage to give selflessly everytime. I know first hand how it feels to be in need and feeling so low about yourself is the very reason I would refuse to express how badly I was in need. That's why I will always offer to be there when someone is in need. It may not matter to most, but I can not walk past someone that is in obvious distress or crisis and feel good about myself. I will give my last dollar to the pan handler no matter what because we truly do not know if they are an angle sent to test our humanitarian worth. I would not be ok with not at least trying to be the fellow sister to a human. I don't know when the world became so cold and introverted, but I refuse to let a judgment stand in the way if being a good person. All people deserve respect and compassion, even the ones who judge. My mother always told me to lead by example and though I may not be able to change the world, I surely do try one person at a time! That's just who I am.

The study strategies I use to achieve academic success thus far has been that I live, eat, and barely sleep during each quarter. I continuously stay focused on my college success while staying busy with my required coursework. More importantly, I remain aware of my grades because my GPA will show my efforts and is highly noted. I spend all day and sometimes night too; on my education. I prioritize my attention on what assignments are to be done first by the due dates of each class and pay close attention to each assignments requirements. It's important to keep a schedule of my time. So, I mark the times I study on the calendar each day and label due dates with bright colors. Next, I always start each assignment by reading my instructors expectations of me thoroughly. This is to be sure of myself. Sometimes, I have to re-read the requirements and/or the class syllabus twice to be positive I have understood what's expected of me. Before I drive into my assignments. Another important strategy is I do not let anything distract me in my home environment, while I am working on my homework. I find by putting good use to the tools my school has provided students with to be successful with is effective in keeping better grades. Such as meeting with a tutor when I'm struggling. This can be done online or in person. Plus, visiting the Library to research the many academic papers, professional journals, and databases online is also a very efficient way to become successfully educated; and a brilliant strategy. I can only achieve my academic goals successfully by giving it my all when studying. Afterwards I always follow up with any feedback from my instructor.

It's always been my dream to become a college graduate. It really 8s the foundation to build a secure and healthy lifestyle. I never really seemed to be in a hurry to do so thought. It was y until I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that I felt the crunch in time. Learning to live with an autoimmune disease has not only been a physically challenging, but mentally challenging as well. Since, I first found out I had Hyperthyroidism and Graves disease I have been in and out of the hospital. There's a part of Hyperthyroidism that is life threatening, it's called a Thyroid storm, it wasn't until I ended up I'm the hospital during an episode that almost took my life that I found out I had this condition. This condition has made my hair fall out, my tempature core raise and my heart beat rate higher than usual. If I don't stay on top of my blood results monitoring my T-4 and Tsh then it can be life threatening. Graves Disease can cause my eyes to bulge out of my head, and create intense and painful migraines that are totally life disabling and there's not much I can do to decrease the symptoms. It's shaped me into the person I am today, because life's short and I had never accomplished much before this, so I decided to get myself in gear and reach for my dreams of becoming a college graduate. It's made me feel like I am running out of time, because I may not have many years left if I did not change my diet, and rest more. My aunt died of this same condition when she was 33, so being 41 I take it very seriously, just like I do my education. I am now in my second quarter to become an Administration Manager with a Medical Billing Minor and my GPA is 3.0, I haven't been in school since I was 14. I ran away from home due to abuse and neglect and been on my own ever since. Life's definitely been a hard road for me to travel. But I believe an education is needed to build a healthy and positive lifestyle from is so important. In conclusion, sometimes we have to deal with an illness that makes everything in life seem that much more important and that's why I am in school today, I have to complete my dreams and become a graduate of college because I only have one life to live and mines about half over, so the time is now to complete my dreams!

Society can best suit women by allowing them the dignity and respect they deserve, to hold doors open and say good day. To not allow there children to grow up hating and by giving more opportunities open for them professionally. If women were protected and valued we would have so much of an easier time becoming an important part of our community. Women are the back born of humanity, we bare the child and gravely suffer for doing so. With discrimination, sexual battery and more there's a huge price a lot of women have to pay, because of their beauty, who have brains that aren't allowed to use it, due t Po the insecurity of a man they doing even know.

Art is beauty, a physical theory that you can visually or physically see it hear, it's a needed escape from the reality we live within and stem is an advantaged technology that is forever reinventing it's self into something more new age appropriate, like everything else it evolves with the sands of time. Stem is where science starts and research begins, it's a new medical break through that cures cancer, or a embryonic stem cell therapy being investigated for the much needed medical treatments for such things as, HIV, Heart Transplant Patients or Hemophilia disorder that will heal the person suffering completely after the medical benefits are approved by the FDA. Together we have a beautiful existence to life, and ever loving passion growing with knowledge and the beauty to rejuvenate our selves with little medical assistance. It's the new gateway formulas to end diseases and create harmony throughout our society! Both are equally as important as the other!

I am sitting in my office and have a beautiful view outside. I can see a park where children are playing. The phone rings and it's an employee she's going to be late for work. I tell her it's ok, I will cover for her until she gets there. She's never late, and she is a great employee. So I go to her desk and log on with my info, I love being a manager for the medical clinic I work for. My employees are great, my bosses are even better and together we make one great team. She's working on the open collection accounts I asked her too, so I continue to help her. We've gotten almost 45 thousand paid in the past few months and the books are looking great. She's arrived so I log out and tell her what I done. She thanks me and I head back to my office. I look out the window and see all the children have left the park, but there's a couple in love walking a dog. I smile for a moment, then my phone rings there is a need for my advise from a new employee, she's stuck in the middle of entering a new patient and has a difficult caller on the phone. I take the call and calm the patient down, looks like a mistake with the billing. So I go through the patients account and fix the error, resubmit it and let them know if they have anymore issues to let me know. I call for a meeting from all the billing department to let them know the importance of correctly entering data, especially if the patient is male or female, over 99% of the errors are from incorrect data.

I've over came incest as a child, which I had self image issues my whole life because if this, then when I was 18 years old I had to turn my father in to stop the abuse. He than got out on bail and committed suicide, that has to be about the hardest thing to deal with in my life I thought, until I was raped in 2011. Now it's a lot different when you turn in a family member and then you turn in a stranger, because you know your family isn't going to kill you for doing what's right, at least you would think. So I turned in my rapist and he got ten years to life, that was ultimately the hardest thing I've ever done. It has changed who I am completely, reshaped my whole life, the way I think, the way I live. He was just released on August 14 , 2021 and now I am living in fear that he will one day find me and hurt me. There's a life long restraining order but really what's a piece of paper going to do if he was to come find me. I refuse to let these horrible incidences get in my way of who I am meant to be, I have had the hardest time adjusting my thinking and my life in order to work together through all the mental and emotional problems, being a victim creates and I am so excited be here to today. I want to better understand my next chapter, to be in school and live like I deserve and to be educated and wise beyond my years. Thank you.

If you do not like what you see in the world, do something to initiate the change you need, so get up and do something about it! Our minds are so influential in our well being & when you believe in yourself genuinely & you believe in what you are fighting for; it is the best way to make a difference in the world. When you are afraid to stand out & be different to teach others how to stand up for what they believe in makes the world a better place. There is so much need for help for the homeless, who are mostly mentally ill, displaced from their families, or been lost to their addiction. It is a sad world to think of all the judgment & persecution those individuals go through daily Most of the problem is society & bot these people, they were born into an abusive family, and that is what leaves them to end up in these situations, not the lack of drive, the lack of better options. If more than half of the people who do judge would never make it in the shoes they wear, If we make it possible for all to survive and achieve great things, we have to start by allowing the homeless to feel human again and give them a place in the world to exist. We will slowly see the quality of life in our communities improve. Moreso, the seed of change we will plant in the world, requiring them to tend a garden enough to feed our homeless in return for housing. That will hold them accountable and leave them feeling accomplished at the end of the day, which day by day will increase success in their own lives as well.?

My goal is to obtain an associate degree in Medical Administration, where I can make a difference in others lives, by creating an efficient and harmonious environment with in a workplace. The reason being is I have had many set back in life and negative experiences in the medical clinics around my community and I was to insured that patients who are counting on these clinics are properly served and feel relieved of stress and negativity after receiving medical care. Their main focus should be to concentrate on their health. This is very important to me, because I've witnessed discrimination due to my insurance type and disability. It doesn't make a person want to reach out for the care they need when experiencing these situations. There fore I would like to be a part of the world who is responsible for changing this. If I am able to become educated and have the knowledge and wisdom to take forth the effort of reviewing policies of a clinic, I can then put together a new more effective way of dealing with discrimination from within the medical community. All individuals should receive the same quality care, no matter their background or underlying issues. I can't stand to see the unjust judgments come from those that we are suppose to trust with our most valuable possession, our lives. I believe making a difference for everyone who has struggled with this and it would greatly benefit my life and the lives of the world around me. Health care is important to our existence and no one should feel like they are unable to get proper care. I want to make people feel appreciative and excepted for who they are not what I think they should be, it's so important to me. It would be a very worthy and positive change to witness and to be a part of something so important is exactly why I am taking Medical Administration Management and will do anything I can to help shape a healthy America for tomorrow one clinic at a time. Allowing all Americans the opportunity to feel equal to the other and discontinue old practices that have left the stigma behind which hinders proper healthcare to certain types of patients. Everyone alive has the right to be free from discrimination and I believe it takes a special understanding and experience to be able to get that across to employees, may it be a health care provider or a office support role, they need to be taught to have a more sophisticated and professional view point when dealing with those whom are of diversity. So I will put forth my best knowledge to change policies and how we deal with this situation from a legal aspect down to the consequences of our actions to rewrite the foundation of what healthcare is all about, Care!

My biggest ambition is education, to become educated is my dreams, my passion, and my heart. This scholarship will help me become the best version of myself and allow me to further follow my dreams and become successful in obtaining an AAS degree. I In vision being a role model, someone to whom values people for who they are knowing that what they've been through is how they came to be, themselves. Someone who doesn't judge others for inadequacies but tries to inspire them to be the best they can be, no matter what color they are, what environment they come from or how old they are. To be there reason of effort and support when their weak, a mentor, a tutor, a person with common interests that cares about doing good in others lives, to better my own would to be to better thiers, whomever they are or will be, I know I have a special gift to give them and with the right degree in college, I will be able to better understand and help them. Someone who never gives up or in, that people admire for the accomplishments and drive they've seen from watching me throughout my years and be a reference for why they never give up in there life and continue to go for their life's passions, even when it seems the world's against them, a promoter of all good things. An influencer of motivation for my younger generation to keep going forward, to follow their dreams, no matter how hard life gets, or where they come from, each day they wake up putting each foot forward and never looking back. A voice to be heard, with a story of determination overcoming, trial and error, with a sad begining, but an even greater ending, full of happiness and success enough to share with the world. Someone who can see others needs and apply what knowledge obtain through education and uses it to do good and to advance further not only in my life, but mostly being able to have the ability to help others advance in there's too, that is most important to me. I want to gain what intelligence I can and help promote others who have had the struggles in life, somewhat like mine and collaborate our stories together. So that we maybe heard by those who need to hear of our experiences, from all of us, that came from broken homes, have been abused in anyway and a wide range of others problems and heal each other- together; as one from a past less fortunate. While sharing life's experiences with those whom are at just an age where it matters in hopes that they will hear our hardships and not have to learn the same kind of lessons. So that they may have a better chance at avoiding the mistakes and setbacks that I and many others have had to to with stand. I want to be the change in the world that others see and follow. There's so much change that's needs for the world to be a better place and In order to feel accomplished and be the best version of myself to do so, I need to follow my own dreams, so that I can be the one who helps make the world a better place for generations to come, and that all starts with an Education and I dedication to do so. Thank you for reading my essay and for the opportunity to be a part of this awesome scholarship. You are an amazing person, even if I am not chosen you are making someone's, dreams come true and that's admirable, so Thank You! Below you will find a link to a book I published in 2013, Thank you.

Legacy to me means a life that was lived exceptionally well. The past that you leave behind you for others to remember when you're gone. For generations to come your memory will be imprinted on the minds of many. Legacy a prodigy or example of all examples, something to live by or to continue to live for, a heritage or heirloom to pass on to your younger peers. Legacy is a extraordinary person who does right by his or her society, who leaves a trail of positive reinforcements and uses his or her mind to change the world around them for the better of all. A highlighted existence far from the forgotten minds of the surrounding community. Someone who makes a path for others to follow, with good intentions and a righteous mind. A legacy is the people we remember that moved us to be better people, who had the light of god in their eyes when they lived their life as it was, never knowing that their actions or choices would someday be of such an importance to the views of others. A role model to look up to or a hero that saves you, a legacy is the name you leave behind , something for others to live up to and want to become one day their-selves. Someone who had many trials and errors and never faltered or gave up, that no matter the setbacks they continued to rise above it, fought with both fists in the air to accomplish their vision. A person that even through the sands of time they're character or perseverance and determination, was so admirable that it was recognized and passed on to remember for the quality of life a person lead, and not for self, but for good of all kinds. Someone who has seen many places and done great things and has a vision of past present and future knowledge to share with those that they love or those that love them, a brand ambassador. Someone who promotes destiny as it should be and not as they tell us it is. A trend setter, a legacy is someone that amazed enough people that they're almost idolized and followed. A rock star in many different aspects, a prodigy of great and prosperous things. A natural born leader, a wise man or woman educated far beyond the limits of humanity, someone who has a dream and follows it until their last breath. A legacy to me is Martin Luther King, Abraham Lincoln, Marilyn Monroe, Trump, Obama, JFK, Queen Dianna, WWII. As well as, all the Veterans, the fallen soldier on both sides. A legacy is a legend of all sorts,shapes and kinds, an inventor of changes that we don't know or see until we evolve, like Harriet Tubman, Anne Frank, Susan B Anthony or your Parents and Mine. A legacy to me is an educated future with a life left behind to pass down to your kids, and their kids - kids for generations. A legend is a a legacy and a legacy is a positive influential personality that even through times our history is never forgotten, a person and an event, a theory or time. It's Einstein or Apollo 11 the things that will forever exist in this day and age and beyond. My upbringing was nothing I would like to speak about, it's not the legacy I'm leaving behind and that why an education is so important to me. I'm breaking a cycle of incest, abuse and a life not of the proper kind. Thank you for reading my essay.

I Invision being a role model, someone to whom values people for who they are knowing that what they've been through is how they came to be, themselves. Someone who doesn't judge others for inadequacies but tries to inspire them to be the best they can be, no matter what color they are, what environment they come from or how old they are. To be there reason of effort and support when their weak, a mentor, a tutor, a person with common interests that cares about doing good in others lives, to better my own would to be to better thiers, whomever they are or will be, I know I have a special gift to give them and with the right degree in college, I will be able to better understand and help them. Someone who never gives up or in, that people admire for the accomplishments and drive they've seen from watching me throughout my years and be a reference for why they never give up in there life and continue to go for their life's passions, even when it seems the world's against them, a promotor of all good things. An influencer of motivation for my younger generation to keep going forward, to follow there dreams, no matter how hard life gets, or where they come from, each day they wake up putting each foot forward and never looking back. A voice to be heard, with a story of determination and trail and error, with a sad begining but an even greater ending, full of happiness and success enough to share with the world. Someone who can see others needs and apply what knowledge obtain through education and uses it to do good and to advance further not only in my life, but mostly being able to have the ability to help others advance in there's too, that is most important to me. I want to gain what intelligence I can and help promote others who have had the struggles in life, somewhat like mine and collaborate our stories together. So that we maybe heard by those who need to hear of our experiences, from all of us, that came from broken homes, have been abused in anyway and a wide range of others problems and heal each other- together; as one from a past less fortunate. While sharing life's experiences with those whom are at just an age where it matters in hopes that they will hear our hardships and not have to learn the same kind of lessons. So that they may have a better chance at avoiding the mistakes and set backs that I and many others have had to to with stand. I want to be the change in the world that others see and follow. There's so much change that's needs for the world to be a better place and In order to feel accomplished and be the best version of myself to do so, I need to follow my own dreams, so that I can be the one who helps make the world a better place for generations to come, and that all starts with an Education and I dedication to do so. Thank you for reading my essay and for the opportunity to be a part of this awesome scholarship. You are an amazing person, even if I am not chosen you are making someones dreams come true and that's admirable, so Thank You!